PSA: Adulting is hard. On top of the whole "work" thing, there's the daily struggle of dressing for work, which can be a job in itself. As many times as we've wished we could roll into our 9-to-5s in sweats and a tee, we can't deny the instant confidence boost we get from polished outfits that make us look — and feel — like we have everything under control (even when we totally don't).
So with power outfits on the brain, we headed to the career section at Macy's for some quick inspiration on how to take our wardrobe straight into boss mode. With its stockpile of versatile tops, skirts, and on-trend outerwear, we found that it's super simple to create a hassle-free workwear lineup that means business while remaining stylish enough to kill it in any scenario — weekends included.
Whether you work in a funky coworking space or a sleek corporate setting, the five fail-safe outfits ahead will make your getting-ready routine easier than ever, no matter your office dress code. Hit the slideshow for proof.
Business attire doesn't have to be blah. Bring some office-approved fun to your outfit by throwing a pink-hued jacket on top. It'll brighten up your day (and your cubicle).
Tommy Hilfiger, $129.00, available at Macy'sAlfani, $69.50, available at Macy'sVanessa Mooney, $45.00, available at Vanessa MooneyCharlotte Olympia, $982.00, available at MatchesFashion.comIllustrated by Chloe Seroussi
Wearing a blazer with tailored trousers is a total #girlboss move. Inject some flair to this classic suit silhouette by swapping your heels for slides and adding a bold handbag. The result? A minimal outfit with maximum effect.
Tommy Hilfiger, $139.00, available at Macy'sAlfani, $69.50, available at Macy'sTommy Hilfiger, $89.00, available at Macy'sEverlane, $145.00, available at EverlaneChloé, $1950.00, available at Net-A-PorterIllustrated by Chloe Seroussi
The blouse-and-pants combo is obviously a workwear go-to. For the creative who's eager to spice things up a little, try a patterned pant (instead of solid) and splashy, shiny accessories.
Tommy Hilfiger, $49.00, available at Macy'sAlfani, $69.50, available at Macy'sPull&Bear, $45.00, available at ASOSJenny Bird, $65.00, available at Jenny BirdAlexander Wang, $650.00, available at Alexander WangIllustrated by Chloe Seroussi
Pencil skirts are another workplace staple, but they don’t have to be the expected black. Reach for one in a jewel tone, and pair it with a ruffled blouse, long-line vest, and boyish brogues.
Tahari, $119.00, available at Macy'sTommy Hilfiger, $69.00, available at Macy'sTahari, $69.00, available at Macy'sCOS, $225.00, available at COSLizzie Fortunato, $495.00, available at Stanley KorshakIllustrated by Chloe Seroussi
Velvet isn’t just for holiday parties. To master that lady-exec look, pair a velvet skirt with a neutral top, a blanket coat, and an eye-catching bag.
Alfani, $199.50, available at Macy'sAlfani, $69.50, available at Macy'sTommy Hilfiger, $39.99, available at Macy'sFendi, $3500.00, available at Net-A-Porter& Other Stories, $195.00, available at & Other StoriesIllustrated by Chloe Seroussi
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Digital media journalists have become adept at chasing down the 24-hour news cycle and hustling to keep pace with events as they unfold in real time. But only now is the media beginning to catch onto the fake news cycle, which cashes in social media by fabricating clickbait headlines and using shocking imagery.
Case in point: Last night's CNN pore scare. At 10:32 p.m., @solikearose tweeted, "Uhhh @CNN is straight up porn right now...what happened to @PartsUnknownCNN," along with a screenshot of what appeared to be just that: Porn airing on CNN instead of Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown. Twitter user @solikearose also alerted Boston-area cable provider RCN, which responded that it hadn't heard from other viewers about the alleged X-rated programming glitch.
Yet, that possibly fake screenshot and unverified tweet were quickly reported on as fact, The Verge reports. Only after it made headlines at The Independent, Mashable, Esquire, and elsewhere did reporters start to pump their breaks long enough to do some actual reporting.
“Despite media reports to the contrary, RCN assures us there was no interruption of CNN programming in the Boston area last night," a CNN spokesperson confirmed to Esquire journalist Luke O'Neil.
In the meantime, @solikearose has since gone silent and switched their Twitter account to private. The porn star featured in the screenshot, Riley Quinn, still has "as featured on @CNN" on her NSFW Twitter bio.
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Update: This post was originally published on November 4, 2016.
No outerwear trend has caught on quite as rapidly as bomber jackets have over the past year. And we have our theories as to why that is. First, practicality. They're ideal for in between seasons and vary in weight and fabrication, meaning you'll be able to find one that's light enough for summer and also one that's warm enough for winter. Essentially, they're a year-round staple. Second, the Gigi factor. This trend quickly became a celebrity and supermodel favorite, and, truthfully, that's all it really took to go viral. And finally, personalization. There are enough options out there to truly find one that's all your own (and, as a bonus, they go hand-in-hand with 2016's pins-and-patches obsession).
Now that we've given you three solid reasons why bomber jackets are still the real style MVPs, click on to shop a whole bunch of picks that we bet will make their way into your closet pretty damn soon.
It's all about the embroidery.
M.A.P. Cherry Blossom Silk Bomber, $218, available at Soleil Blue.
If you’re a skin-care stickler, you likely believe that trends have no place in the service of caring for your complexion. Stick to what works, you might think. "Stick to what’s proven," you might say. And that perspective has its merits. Sunscreen is never a bad idea. Antioxidants will never do you wrong. And we’ve yet to hear a bad word about the long-term collagen-boosting and elastin-regenerating benefits of retinols. Of course, the thing about closing your mind to trends is that you’re also closing your mind to innovation and opportunity.
As we see it, the latest batch of skin-care trends — enhanced waters that eschew alcohol in favor of potent actives, cleansing liquids that are neither stripping soaps nor greasy oils, and cool-looking plasticized masks that don't make a mess and encourage deeper ingredient penetration — just might have some pretty serious merits. How do you know if they're right for you? Try working them in to your nightly routine. No product is one-size-fits-all and no flash-in-the-pan trend will replace real science and real results.
We’ve rounded up the most promising new innovations that we’re seeing on the market today and asked the experts how exactly they could be best used to our benefit. Because here’s one thing we can probably all agree on: Once you open your heart to change, it can be a very, very good thing.
The Trend: Micellar Water
How To Incorporate: First off, it’s important to understand what micellar water is in the first place. In short, it’s like a facial oil, only less greasy. Micelles are tiny balls of cleansing oil suspended in a soft — non mineral-y — water, explains New York City dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD.
That low-key addition of oil means that micellar water is a great hydrating and makeup-removal option for greasier complexions, but it’s also soothing on dryer skin, too. Wet down a cotton pad and sweep over your entire face, allowing the liquid that’s left behind to air-dry. The no-rinse option is an effective alternative to facial wipes when you’re too tired to fully suds up your face. “For my clients with dry complexions, a micellar water is a nice replacement for overly stripping cleansers,” says Dr. Zeichner.
Try: Simple Cleansing Micellar Water, $7.99, available at Ulta Beauty.
The Trend: Sleeping Masks
How To Incorporate: “Your face can lose a lot of moisture when you sleep,” says Dr. Zeichner. “A sleeping mask will form a breathable layer on the skin that encourages deep penetration, but also doesn’t get all over your pillow.” Most versions offer no-nonsense hydration with moisturizers like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides; others tap anti-aging actives like antioxidants or niacinamide.
In general, you’re going to want to use the thick creams in place of your regular night hydrator or treatment — some of the actives might not play well with the ingredients in your go-tos. Massage a dime-sized dollop onto clean skin, allow to dry, and hit the hay. Another important note: While these formulas don’t require immediate rinsing, your regular morning face wash will help whisk away any residue or gunk.
Try: Amorepacific Time Response Skin Renewal Sleeping Masque, $200, available at Amorepacific.
The Trend: Modeling/Rubber Masks
How To Incorporate: The one-two steps of moulding masks are fun in a Bill Nye sort of way — usually, you hand-mix a powder with an activator gel or straight-up water to get the party started — but that’s only part of the story. They’re also highly effective. Alginate, an algae extract, rubberizes in the presence of water, allowing the mask to form a bendy, evaporation-proof barrier, which enhances the penetration of actives, explains Sarah Lee, the cofounder of natural Korean beauty site Glow Recipe.
Most versions are loaded with moisturizers, meaning they’re a quenching alternative to traditional night creams, and because they only take 15 minutes max to dry, it’s not a super time-intensive addition. Try them on evenings when your skin feels parched and your everyday moisturizer just won’t cut it.
Try: Lindsay Modeling Mask Set, $11, available at Glow Recipe.
The Trend: Essences, Mists, & Splash Masks
How To Incorporate: Call them what you want to call them, we like to think of these enhanced waters as H2O 2.0. Because they’re clear and watery — not viscous, like a serum — it’s easy to think enhanced waters are wimpy. Not the case, according to Dr. Zeichner. Some contain tighteners like peptides; others, soothers like chamomile or rose; and still others yet, low-dose exfoliants like lactic acid.
“They’re unassuming, but not all of these enhanced waters are created equal,” he says. Pick one that suits your skin’s needs, then work into your daily routine (none require rinsing). Because they’re thinner than serums, they won’t pill or stick, meaning they’re suitable to layer under everyday moisturizers. However, you will want to allow them to dry fully — that’s kind of the point — before slicking on any additional products.
Try: Boscia Tsubaki Splash Mask, $38, available at Sephora.
The Trend: Blue-Light Treatments
How To Incorporate: Using blue LED lights on your face might seem super 21st century, but according to Los Angeles facialist Shani Darden, it’s not exactly new. “We’ve been using light forever on the skin. It’s just that now, the machines are advanced and they really work, so you hear about it more,” she says.
Hand-held devices or masks emit light in the low-400 nms. That’s the wavelength proven to kill the very bacteria that causes acne. “Blue light can totally clear your skin if you’re using it enough,” says Darden. Whichever device you choose, apply on clean skin and be patient and consistent — most are gentle enough to be used every-other day and rushing never served anyone. Know that they aren’t a replacement for spot treatments or exfoliants, but they’re an effective addition to a complexion-clearing routine.
Try: Silk'N Blue Acne Treatment Device, $149, available at Ulta Beauty.
The Trend: Pressed Serums
How To Incorporate: Lighter than a night cream, but heavier than a slick serum, pressed serums exist in that comfortable middle ground, explains Lee, who says they’re a great option for someone who wants an A-list skin-care routine, but isn’t here for dozens of steps.
“It’s part of the multi-tasking trend we’re seeing everywhere in Korea,” she adds. Apply after cleansing, but before layering on anti-aging active. Opt for one addresses your individual skin concerns. (Pressed serums do more than one thing well, but they’re not one-size-fits-all.) Some are formulated to deeply hydrate, others tap fermented botanicals to soften fine lines, and others are best for cooling and degreasing oily complexions. Smooth on clean skin or scoop out a little extra and use as an overnight sleeping mask, advises Lee.
Try: Blithe Crystal Iceplant Pressed Serum, $49, available at Sephora.
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MIAMI (AP) — Fidel Castro, who led a rebel army to improbable victory, embraced Soviet-style communism, and defied the power of 10 U.S. presidents during his half-century rule of Cuba, has died at age 90.
With a shaking voice, President Raul Castro said on state television that his older brother died at 10:29 p.m. Friday. He ended the announcement by shouting the revolutionary slogan: "Toward victory, always!"
Castro's reign over the island nation 90 miles (145 kilometers) from Florida was marked by the U.S.-backed Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961 and the Cuban Missile Crisis a year later that brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. The bearded revolutionary, who survived a crippling U.S. trade embargo as well as dozens, possibly hundreds, of assassination plots, died 10 years after ill health forced him to hand power over to Raul.
Castro overcame imprisonment at the hands of dictator Fulgencio Batista, exile in Mexico, and a disastrous start to his rebellion before triumphantly riding into Havana in January 1959 to become, at age 32, the youngest leader in Latin America. For decades, he served as an inspiration and source of support to revolutionaries from Latin America to Africa.
His commitment to socialism was unwavering, though his power finally began to fade in mid-2006 when a gastrointestinal ailment forced him to hand over the presidency to Raul in 2008, provisionally at first and then permanently. His defiant image lingered long after he gave up his trademark Cohiba cigars for health reasons and his tall frame grew stooped.
"Socialism or death" remained Castro's rallying cry even as Western-style democracy swept the globe and other communist regimes in China and Vietnam embraced capitalism, leaving this island of 11 million people an economically crippled Marxist curiosity.
He survived long enough to see Raul Castro negotiate an opening with U.S. President Barack Obama on December 17, 2014, when Washington and Havana announced they would move to restore diplomatic ties for the first time since they were severed in 1961. He cautiously blessed the historic deal with his lifelong enemy in a letter published after a monthlong silence. Obama made a historic visit to Havana in March 2016.
Carlos Rodriguez, 15, was sitting in Havana's Miramar neighborhood when he heard that Fidel Castro had died.
"Fidel? Fidel?" he said, slapping his head in shock. "That's not what I was expecting. One always thought that he would last forever. It doesn't seem true."
"It's a tragedy," said 22-year-old nurse Dayan Montalvo. "We all grew up with him. I feel really hurt by the news that we just heard."
But the news cheered the community of Cuban exiles in Florida who had fled Castro's government. Thousands gathered in the streets in Miami's Little Havana to cheer and wave Cuban flags.
Fidel Castro Ruz was born August 13, 1926, in eastern Cuba's sugar country, where his Spanish-immigrant father worked first recruiting labor for U.S. sugar companies and later built up a prosperous plantation of his own.
Castro attended Jesuit schools, then the University of Havana, where he received law and social science degrees. His life as a rebel began in 1953 with a reckless attack on the Moncada military barracks in the eastern city of Santiago. Most of his comrades were killed and Fidel and his brother, Raul, went to prison.
Fidel turned his trial defense into a manifesto that he smuggled out of jail, famously declaring, "History will absolve me."
Freed under a pardon, Castro fled to Mexico and organized a rebel band that returned in 1956, sailing across the Gulf of Mexico to Cuba on a yacht named Granma. After losing most of his group in a bungled landing, he rallied support in Cuba's eastern Sierra Maestra mountains.
Three years later, tens of thousands spilled into the streets of Havana to celebrate Batista's downfall and catch a glimpse of Castro as his rebel caravan arrived in the capital on January 8, 1959.
The U.S. was among the first to formally recognize his government, cautiously trusting Castro's early assurances he merely wanted to restore democracy, not install socialism.
Within months, Castro was imposing radical economic reforms. Members of the old government went before summary courts, and at least 582 were shot by firing squads over two years. Independent newspapers were closed and in the early years, homosexuals were herded into camps for "re-education."
In 1964, Castro acknowledged holding 15,000 political prisoners. Hundreds of thousands of Cubans fled, including Castro's daughter, Alina Fernández Revuelta, and his younger sister, Juana.
Still, the revolution thrilled millions in Cuba and across Latin America who saw it as an example of how the seemingly arrogant Yankees could be defied. And many on the island were happy to see the seizure of property of the landed class, the expulsion of American gangsters and the closure of their casinos.
Castro's speeches, lasting up to six hours, became the soundtrack of Cuban life and his 269-minute speech to the U.N. General Assembly in 1960 set the world body's record for length that still stood more than five decades later.
As Castro moved into the Soviet bloc, Washington began working to oust him, cutting U.S. purchases of sugar, the island's economic mainstay. Castro, in turn, confiscated $1 billion in U.S. assets.
The American government imposed a trade embargo, banning virtually all U.S. exports to the island, except for food and medicine, and it severed diplomatic ties on January 3, 1961.
On April 16 of that year, Castro declared his revolution to be socialist, and the next day, about 1,400 Cuban exiles stormed the beach at the Bay of Pigs on Cuba's south coast. But the CIA-backed invasion failed.
The debacle forced the U.S. to give up on the idea of invading Cuba, but that didn't stop Washington and Castro's exiled enemies from trying to do him in. By Cuban count, he was the target of more than 630 assassination plots by militant Cuban exiles or the U.S. government.
The biggest crisis of the Cold War between Washington and Moscow exploded on October 22, 1962, when President John F. Kennedy announced there were Soviet nuclear missiles in Cuba and imposed a naval blockade of the island. Humankind held its breath, and after a tense week of diplomacy, Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev removed them. Never had the world felt so close to nuclear war.
Castro cobbled revolutionary groups together into the new Cuban Communist Party, with him as first secretary. Labor unions lost the right to strike. The Catholic Church and other religious institutions were harassed. Neighborhood "revolutionary defense committees" kept an eye on everyone.
Castro exported revolution to Latin American countries in the 1960s and dispatched Cuban troops to Africa to fight Western-backed regimes in the 1970s. Over the decades, he sent Cuban doctors abroad to tend to the poor and gave sanctuary to fugitive Black Panther leaders from the U.S.
But the collapse of the Soviet bloc ended billions in preferential trade and subsidies for Cuba, sending its economy into a tailspin. Castro briefly experimented with an opening to foreign capitalists and limited private enterprise.
As the end of the Cold War eased global tensions, many Latin American and European countries re-established relations with Cuba. In January 1998, Pope John Paul II visited a nation that had been officially atheist until the early 1990s.
Aided by a tourism boom, the economy slowly recovered and Castro steadily reasserted government control, stifling much of the limited free enterprise tolerated during harder times.
As flamboyant as he was in public, Castro tried to lead a discreet private life. He and his first wife, Mirta Diaz-Balart, had one son before divorcing in 1956. Then, for more than four decades, Castro had a relationship with Dalia Soto del Valle. They had five sons together and were said to have married quietly in 1980.
By the time Castro resigned 49 years after his triumphant arrival in Havana, he was the world's longest ruling head of government, aside from monarchs.
In retirement, Castro voiced unwavering support as Raul slowly, but deliberately, enacted sweeping changes to the Marxist system he had built.
His longevity allowed the younger brother to consolidate control, perhaps lengthening the revolution well past both men's lives. In February 2013, Raul announced that he would retire as president in 2018 and named newly minted Vice President Miguel Díaz-Canel as his successor.
"I'll be 90 years old soon," Castro said at an April 2016 Communist Party congress where he made his most extensive public appearance in years. "Soon, I'll be like all the others. The time will come for all of us, but the ideas of the Cuban Communists will remain as proof that on this planet, if one works with fervor and dignity, they can produce the material and cultural goods that human beings need and that need to be fought for without ever giving up."
Cuba's government announced that Castro's ashes would be interred on December 4 in the eastern city of Santiago that was a birthplace of his revolution. That will follow more than a week of honors, including a nearly nationwide caravan retracing, in reverse, his tour from Santiago to Havana with the triumph of the revolution in 1959.
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Associated Press writer Anita Snow, in Mexico City, and AP news researcher Rhonda Shafner, in New York, contributed to this report.
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A version of this article originally appeared onShape.
Don't get us wrong — there are plenty of reasons to go off the pill. While your plans to have children or your relationship status are common factors to consider, a new study published in the journal Contraception has found another, much more surprising reason why many women are forgoing hormonal birth control for less effective methods of contraception. Simply put, they wish to avoid the weight gain that's come to be associated with the pill.
The study found that women who had concerns about gaining weight were much more likely to use non-hormonal forms of birth control. For some women, this meant using a copper IUD or condoms instead, while others adopted withdrawal as their main form of birth control. Some even reported having no go-to birth control plan at all.
The researchers noted that doctors need to be aware that their patients might be choosing their birth control based on whether or not they'll gain weight. This presents a natural opportunity to discuss all forms of effective birth control, and to remind their patients that it's a myth that the birth control pill leads to weight gain.
"Studies comparing large groups of women who take and do not take birth control have shown no difference in weight gain," gynecologist Richard K. Krauss, MD, told Shape.
This brings us back to where we started — you can and should choose your preferred method of birth control however you see fit. As Bedsider notes, the relationship between the pill and weight gain is complex; it's true that large studies show that there's no direct link between the pill and weight gain overall, but that's not to say that individual variations are impossible. This means that the best advice is to choose the method that makes the most sense for you and your lifestyle. Still, knowing that weight change is at best a very unlikely side effect can keep you from prematurely ruling out options that may work really well for you.
Click through to Shape for more on maintaining your sexual health and well-being.(Shape)
Taylor Swift isn't the only one with something to be thankful for this holiday weekend. Actress Alison Pill welcomed her first child, baby girl Wilder Grace, with husband Joshua Leonard and shared the news with an Instagram quote from Our Town, which was written by Thornton Wilder.
"So much to be thankful for. Wilder Grace Leonard, born November 19, 2016," Pill captioned her perfectly adorable first family photo. "'Oh, earth, you're too wonderful for anybody to realize you. ...Do human beings ever realize life while they live it? — Every, every minute?'"
Pill, who is perhaps best known for her role on HBO's The Newsroom, worked throughout her pregnancy and just finished a promotional tour for her new film, Miss Sloane. Her husband, Bates Motel actor and proud new father, shared the same photo and caption on his own Instagram shortly after. The pair were married in the spring of 2015.
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Never gift a fragrance, they say. Perfumes are so personal, they say. Go for something safe, they say. But where's the fun in that? We like a challenge, and we also like to think we know our friends and family members pretty damn well. Probably too well. (Like mom, what made you think I needed to know details about when I was conceived?)
If you're a gift-giving risk-taker, then you've come to the right place. We sniffed the latest and greatest scents and matched each to a type of person we all know. The girl who only wears black. The one who never turns down a round of shots. That "intriguing" new friend with the ever-changing backstory. And definitely no mention of Carries, Samanthas, Charlottes, and Mirandas. (Because no one actually knows a freelance sex columnist living in a 600-square foot apartment, let's be real.)
Ahead check out our best selects.
For the woman in the throes of a passionate love affair...
Rose is at the heart of this insanely sexy perfume oil, meant to be lightly massaged into the skin of whatever body part you want someone to linger on. This isn't your grandma's powdery, potpourri rose — this is the American Beauty version of it.
Christian Louboutin Perfume Oil in Tornade Blonde, $320, available at Christian Louboutin.
For the girl who wears all black...
For a night out (but not at the club), throw on a leather jacket, ripped jeans, and this cool-girl scent that blends spice with warm woods and lush plum.
& Other Stories Nocturne Parisienne, $95, available December 1st at & Other Stories.
For the patron of the arts...
If the essence of sheer pink silk were bottled, it would smell like this fragrance inspired by the ballet (American Ballet Theater dancer Courtney Lavine is the face). It's light and pretty, but not too girly, as plum, bergamot, and patchouli balance out the rose.
For that friend whose life is far more exciting than yours...
Just when you think you have a grasp on what this scent smells like, it slightly changes on your skin. Some days, I only notice the jasmine and orchid; others, the musky amber; strangely enough, sometimes it just smells clean and soapy. But it's always really, really good.
Daisy fans are diehards. If you know one, don't fool yourself into thinking she'll put hers aside in favor of a new fragrance so easily. Get her the violet-heavy floral juice she loves — dressed up for the holidays in a shiny gold bottle.
Marc Jacobs Daisy Shine Gold Edition, $105, available at Marc Jacobs.
For your booziest friend...
You know the one: She strolls in late to the office on Friday morning in a leopard coat, with perfectly disheveled hair, smelling like perfume sprayed on to mask last night's Grey Goose spill. This icy blend of aldehyde, rhubarb, spices, and ambroxan, which smells like a very expensive mix of vodka tonic and male model, is for her.
Strong notes of leather, incense, and vetiver make this the perfect scent to gift someone who loves the smell of books and a burning fire (but not burnt books — you shouldn't gift a book burner anything).
For the woman with the immaculate, Scandinavian decor-inspired apartment...
The name of this fragrance translates to "silk skin," which is an accurate description of the airy, clean, sensual scent from French architectural and product designer Philippe Starck. Not familiar? He reinvented the classic Louis XV chair into the ghost chairs we're all so obsessed with.
Starck Paris Peau de Soie, $150, available at Neiman Marcus.
For the person who posts beach pics 365 days a year...
Get them this happy-smelling blend of bergamot, magnolia, sandalwood, and amber. Walk On Air Sunset is the richer, seasonal edition of the original, but still far from heavy — which should be obvious just looking at the translucent bottle.
This perfume is inspired by the Moroccan tangerine, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's your everyday light, crisp citrusy scent. Initially, it's a bit bitter, but it gets warmer and richer as you get down to the violet, orris, and enveloping cashmere.
Byredo Belle de Tanger, $230, available at Neiman Marcus.
For the woman who pulls out her tarot cards after dinner...
We present this magical, musky-jasmine fragrance that smells like lying in the grass in a velvet dress at twilight.
Jasmine and "imaginary white flowers" (what are those?) are at the heart of this exotic scent, but you'll also get whiffs of red pepper, ginger, and tea.
The Collection by PhuongDang Raw Secret, $300, available at Barneys New York.
For the hedonist...
Sweet gourmands with sophistication are the needles in this perfume haystack, but we found one. Buttery and candied, we imagine this is what throwing a huge helping of melted sugar on a bouquet of rare flowers smells like.
Juliette Has a Gun MMMM..., $100, available at Sephora.
For the most interesting woman in the room...
With notes of peony, jasmine, and ambroxan crystals, you'd expect this to be a bright floral similar to hundreds of others. But you'd be wrong. It's unexpectedly spicy and totally unique, transforming as you wear it throughout the day. It's the perfume for the person who smirks at every perfume commercial,
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Feeling weighed down by your hair routine? You're not alone. Luckily, the solution is simple: It’s time to purge your way to becoming a full-blown minimalist. While barely there makeup and neatly groomed nails are in, we’re ready to cut down on another time-consuming part of our days, too.
Unless you’re a hairstylist or are frequently touched by the hands of one, figuring out what you need and when you need it can be a tough skill to learn. We’re determined to rid our lives of the complicated cocktails, cans upon cans of sprays, and heavy treatments we’re not quite sure about to find what will keep our hair at its best — with the least amount of effort. Whether you heat-style or air-dry, a shorter prep time can be yours. In fact, all you need is four products, no matter your hair type or texture.
Click ahead to see every product you really need for your hair and get ready to push those unneeded bottles to the back of the shelf.
Wavy Hair
If you want textured, voluminous waves, start your regime in the shower. Thom Priano, celebrity hairtylist and R+Co cofounder, calls it a "no-fuss" strategy to cut down on styling. This shampoo amps up strands.
R+Co Cactus Texturizing Shampoo, $24, available at Birchbox.
Shampoo and condition every-other day, Priano advises — and avoid a heavy conditioner, or else you'll risk weighing down the texture you're trying to add. This conditioner enhances beachy waves.
John Frieda Beach Blonde Smooth Seas Detangling Conditioner, $5.99, available at Target.
Matte Fugate, Kérastase consulting hairstylist, tells us, "Keep all product lightweight to add texture." This wave spray is ideal for wavy hair that refuses to be slowed down by a heavy product. It adds shine and grit.
The last step? Priano suggests a wax, since it adds gloss and shine. This will create movement, shape, and definition through ends.
Bumble and Bumble Semisumo, $29, available at Sephora.
Straight Hair
For those with straight hair, a cleansing oil that banishes buildup while moisturizing your scalp is key. This formula is intensely smoothing, but won't make hair limp.
IGK Smoke & Mirrors Conditioning Cleansing Oil, $29, available at Sephora.
Priano says that straight hair can be shampooed every day, if need be. Just be sure to include a thick conditioner to keep the shine going. This is one of the most no-frills conditioners we've ever tried, but still smells luxurious. You can wash daily, if desired, but never condition your scalp, Priano says.
Reverie Nude Conditioner, $40, available at Sephora.
If you do choose to skip a couple days, Fugate says that by the second or third day, your ends could get noticeably dry, so rub a dime-size amount of oil in your palms. Then, massage on your ends for refreshed moisture.
Earth’s Nectar Hair Gloss, $18.50, available at Sephora.
Fugate stresses that straight hair benefits from products with alcohol — and mousse is the best place to find this. Why? It dries up oil and prevents hair from getting too heavy or limp. Comb through towel-dried strands that are about 70% dry.
Big Sexy Hair Big Altitude Bodifying Blow Dry Mousse, $17.95, available at Ulta Beauty.
Curly Hair
Fugate suggests that those with curly hair should focus primarily on moisture. Pay attention to your shampoo — you want to pick a formula that adds shine and hydration.
Verb Hydrating Shampoo, $14, available at Sephora.
There's something to be said for soft, touchable curls — and this rich conditioner delivers. Curly hair should be conditioned every time it's shampooed.
Redken All Soft Conditioner, $16.50, available at Ulta Beauty.
It doesn't stop there: This hydrating detangler could be crucial, depending on how thick your curls are. If you don’t tend to need an added thirst-quencher like this one, you can go right to the gel and skip the leave-in.
Amla Legend Combing Cream, $6.29, available end of January at Amla Legend.
Next comes a defining product: gel. This defining, shine-enhancing formula ensures a long-lasting style.
Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper Gel, $17.50, available at Birchbox.
Fine Hair
If your hair appears lifeless or you want it to be clean without all the buildup, opt for a lifting shampoo like this one.
Living Proof Full Shampoo, $25, available at Sephora.
Even if your locks don't appear damaged and have never seen a drop of dye, this restorative conditioner is impressively hydrating, strengthening, and nearly weightless when hair is dried. Priano adds that your conditioner should be incredibly light so you start off with a fresh base. Then, add your product.
L'Oréal Total Repair 5 Extreme Conditioner, $4.99, available at Ulta Beauty.
Want texture? Priano says Badlands is the way to go. Apply to clean strands for grit, thickness, and a second-day look.
R+Co Badlands Dry Shampoo Paste, $28, available at R+Co.
This texture spray adds a powerful mist of volume without feeling sticky.
Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast, $29, available at Sephora.
Textured Hair
Textured hair needs a more thirst-quenching shampoo than most, Priano explains. This hydrating, sulfate-free shampoo will not only moisturize, but also protects from damage.
Madame C.J. Walker Beauty Culture Coconut & Moringa Oils Curl Shampoo, $24, available at Sephora.
This conditioner is primarily made with olive oil, so it's smoothing, but never overwhelming for your ends.
DevaCurl One Condition, $22, available at Sephora.
If your curls need definition, smooth this gel on damp stands and either air-dry or use a diffuser.
Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Creme, $20, available at Sephora.
Hydration is the most important tip to remember, so finding a replenishing serum or oil that will nourish the ends, but not make the curl lose shape, is crucial.
Dove Advanced Hair Series Supreme Creme Serum Quench Absolute, $5.99, available at Target.
Thick Hair
Thick hair's biggest woe is how heavy it can feel, but it does need hydration. Priano says this shampoo is a lifesaver, since it's practically a cleanser, oil, and conditioner in one.
Kérastase Elixir Ultime Bain Riche, $43, available at Kerastase.
If you feel like your shampoo isn't pulling its weight in hydration, this super-rich formula will get the job done and leave every piece soft to the touch.
Bumble and Bumble Super Rich Conditioner, $25, available at Sephora.
Squeeze a quarter-sized amount of blowdry or styling cream into your hands and rake through wet or towel-dried, hair. It’ll immediately revive thick hair that appears dull — but don't be too generous, a little goes a long way.
Drybar Velvet Hammer Hydrating Control Cream, $29, available at Sephora.
Fugate preaches that dry oils can be that perfect finishing touch to any style, especially for thicker hair. With a light hand, rub a pea-sized amount over your finished look and to seal everything in.
Sally Hershberger 24K Golden Touch Nourishing Dry Oil, $40, available at Sephora.
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Update: Jill Stein has also filed for a recount in Wisconsin, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports, getting her request in late on Friday. The dual request, also made by Roque "Rocky" De La Fuente on behalf of the Reform and American Delta Parties, is a first in Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin Elections Commission announced that there will be a statewide recount of the votes in response to these two petitions, NPR reports. The Stein campaign will pay the fee for the recount, which is expected to begin late in the week, per a statement from Wisconsin Elections Commission Director Mike Haas. By law, the recount is required to be finished by December 13.
Stein is still fundraising in order to call for recounts in Pennsylvania and Michigan in time for their respective deadlines.
Update, November 25, 2016: Another third-party candidate beat Jill Stein to the punch in Wisconsin. On Friday, November 25, Roque "Rocky" De La Fuente, the Reform Party and American Delta Party candidate, filed a petition to the Wisconsin Election Commission asking for a recount of the election results, citing "evidence of suspicious anomalies and unexpected results in the unaudited computer output" and "known ongoing defects and vulnerability of Wisconsin’s election technology and its management."
This article was originally published on November 24, 2016.
Jill Stein has called for a vote recount in the battleground states of Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The Green Party candidate has also already raised the over $3 million dollars needed to fund the recount, the Guardian reports.
In a statement posted on her website, Stein said, "After a divisive and painful presidential race, in which foreign agents hacked into party databases, private email servers, and voter databases in certain states, many Americans are wondering if our election results are reliable. That's why the unexpected results of the election and reported anomalies need to be investigated before the 2016 presidential election is certified. We deserve elections we can trust."
Stein's campaign says it is seeking the recount in order to have “protecting our democracy and ensuring that [Americans] an have confidence in reported results.”
Stein's call for a recount comes after reports that a group of activists encouraged Hillary Clinton's campaign to request a recount in the same states, citing voting irregularities.
The money Stein has raised so far will fund a recount in one state. The campaign says it will require an additional $6 to $7 million to fund a recount in all three states. Stein's campaign says it will demand recounts in as many of the three states as it can afford.
The deadline for a recount request in Wisconsin is Friday, November 24. Pennsylvania's recount request deadline is Monday, November 28. Michigan's is Wednesday, November 30.
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The last holiday season of the Obama administration has officially started. The first family's final White House Christmas tree, a 19-foot Balsam-Veitch fir from Wisconsin, arrived yesterday.
"Christmas begins. The holidays start," Mrs. Obama exclaimed after "accepting" the tree, according to the Associated Press. "We're ready. Our last one. We're excited about it."
The tree will be set up in the White House Blue Room and likely decorated to honor the U.S. military. On Tuesday, Mrs. Obama will welcome military families to get the first look at the adorned evergreen.
Dave and Mary Vander Velden, owners of the Oconto, WI, farm where it the tree was grown were on hand to personally make the festive delivery. The couple won this year's contest to provide the White House Christmas tree — a tradition since 1966.
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Despite the plethora of options, it can be tough to find the right pair of hoop earrings. Oftentimes, they're either too small, too big, too thin, too thick, too heavy, too light...the list goes on. And while it really depends what you're looking for in your hoop (Do you want something barely-there and easy to wear everyday? Do you want a show-stopping, statement-maker?), there's one Brooklyn-based jewelry designer who seems to be making the ones everyone wants.
Laura Lombardi 's curve earrings are taking Instagram by storm: And while they're gold and on the thicker side, don't be fooled. Coming from someone who owns a pair, they're actually super-lightweight; they're made from hollow brass and are about 2 inches in height and a 1/4 inch in diameter. The best part, though (besides the fact that they cost under $100), is how many different ways they can be styled: On our feeds, we've seen them paired most with laid-back outfits like jeans and a T-shirt or a cozy sweater. Sure, they're great for adding some impact to an otherwise-casual look, but we honestly, can't think of any type of clothing they wouldn't work with. Click through to see just how good they really look — if there's such a thing as hoop porn, well, consider this it.
From this angle, you can see they're hollow.
Laura Lombardi Curve Earrings, $98, available at Laura Lombardi.
The residents of Chappaqua, NY, wanted to cheer up a post-election Hillary Clinton this Thanksgiving. And from the looks of her Twitter account, they succeeded.
"I was greeted by this heartwarming display on the corner of my street today. Thank you to all of you who did this. Happy Thanksgiving," Clinton wrote alongside a picture of about a dozen colorful homemade signs of support left along the road by her upstate New York home Thursday morning.
According to Politico, the signs, which held messages of gratitude for the recent presidential candidate, including, "We Are Thankful for Hillary, An American Hero," "Thank You Hillary," and, "I'm With Her," were the brainchild of local a 6-year-old boy named Liam.
I was greeted by this heartwarming display on the corner of my street today. Thank you to all of you who did this. Happy Thanksgiving. -H pic.twitter.com/b69mW3Oqbf
Liam, a longtime-for-a-6-year-old Clinton supporter, was disappointed that their shared hometown only had one “We Love HRC” sign on display after the election. "There ‘should be lots and lots of signs,'" Liam felt, because, surely, Clinton had to be "even sadder" than he was at the outcome, his mother explained. So the mother and son made a few signs of their own and decided to email friends and family for help with the Thanksgiving display.
For a healthy winter glow, it's all about the highlighter. A good one is kind of like carrying your own personal lighting team around with you in a compact. And a good rainbow highlighter? Well, thanks to the sudden seemingly insatiable demand for the product this year, a good rainbow highlighter is like the magical unicorn of highlighter. Figuratively speaking, of course — until now.
U.K.-based I Heart Makeup is upping the whimsical ante with its newest on-trend release, a unicorn-themed rainbow highlighter packaged in a heart. Appropriately named Unicorn's Heart, the company's new glimmering, pastel illuminator retails for $9 and features stripes of lavender, crystal blue, mint, canary yellow, and baby-pink pigment. According to I Heart Makeup's website, the highlighter (which will give you that "perfect colourful iridescent rainbow glow") was "made by real unicorns."
To apply a shining rainbow glow across your skin, swipe your brush across all the hues or simply swirl your brush around the entire compact to blend all five shades and create a lilac tint. Either way, pairing with additional unicorn-themed beauty offerings is optional.
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But beyond the familiar faces, there were cameos from actors who didn’t appear on the original show peppered throughout the new episodes. In particular, there was significant crossover between actors from ShondaLand and the Parenthood universe. We might be reading too much into this while still digesting the four new extra-long episodes and Thanksgiving leftovers, but it’s hard not to make the connection.
The most obvious universe-crossover cameo came from Mae Whitman, who played Graham’s daughter, Amber, on Parenthood, appearing as a girl on the street in New York City who instructs her on trading sneakers for pastry. Peter Krause — Graham’s real-life boyfriend and Parenthood brother — played a park ranger. Not to be left out, Jason Ritter, who played Graham’s Parenthood beau, also made an parallel appearance as a much, much nicer park ranger.
Series regular Liza Weil, who plays Paris Geller, is joined by Scandal 's Dan Bucatinsky, who plays a Condé Nast editor. The ShondaLand connection? Weil stars on Rhimes' How to Get Away With Murder while Bucatinsky was on Scandal.
Gilmore Girls creator Amy Sherman-Palladino also included several actors who were on her short-lived show Bunheads, including Julia Goldani Telles, Sutton Foster, and Bailey De Young.
Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life is now streaming on Netflix.
Sutton Foster
Bunheads alum Sutton Foster made a welcome appearance in the Stars Hollow musical.
Photo: Gilbert Carrasquillo/FilmMagic.
Mae Whitman
Lauren Graham's Parenthood daughter, Mae Whitman — a Gilmore Girls superfan — makes an appearance as a girl in New York City.
Photo: Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic.
Peter Krause
Peter Krause played Lauren Graham's brother on Parenthood and is her boyfriend in real life. He plays a park ranger on the Gilmore Girls: A Year In the Life.
Photo: Andrew Toth/FilmMagic
Dan Bucatinsky
Liza Weil's ShondaLand pal Dan Bucatinsky turns up as a Condé Nast editor who met with Rory.
Photo: Tara Ziemba/Getty Images.
Alex Borstein
This wasn't Alex Borstein's first appearance on the Gilmore Girls. She played Sookie in the unaired pilot and Emily's stylist, Miss Celine, in a 2005 episode.
Photo: Jerod Harris/Getty Images.
Julia Goldani Telles
Another recycled Bunheads cast member, Julia Goldani Telles plays Sandi, who tries to hire Rory to work for her website.
Photo: Kris Connor/FilmMagic.
Rachael Ray
Rachael Ray was one of many quickly fired chefs brought into the Dragonfly to replace Sookie.
Photo: Laura Cavanaugh/FilmMagic.
Alex Kingston
British actor Alex Kingston, previously seen on Dr. Who and ER, plays Naomi in Gilmore Girls: A Year In the Life.
Photo: Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic.
Paul Anka
Legendary crooner Paul Anka makes a cameo on the Gilmore Girls reboot, as well as in Lorelai's dream (as himself).
Photo: Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.
Ray Wise
The Twin Peaks star, now appearing on Fresh Off The Boat, attends Richard Gilmore's funeral and later shows up at Emily's Nantucket home.
Photo: Michael Tran/FilmMagic.
Jack Carpenter
The Good Wife 's Jack Carpenter turns up in Stars Hollow as Paul.
Photo: D Dipasupil/FilmMagic
Jason Ritter
Lauren Graham's Parenthood boyfriend popped up in Stars Hollow as a park ranger.
Photo: Gabriel Olsen/Getty Images.
Jackie Hoffman
Acclaimed Broadway vet Jackie Hoffman shows up as Rory's colleague at the Stars Hollow Gazette.
Photo: Chance Yeh/WireImage.
Louise Goffin
Louise Goffin, who sings the Gilmore Girls theme song with her mother, Carole King, finally gets some screen time in the Netflix series.
Photo: David Livingston/Getty Images.
Christian Borle
Sutton Foster's ex-husband and Smash star Christian Borle was featured in the Stars Hollow musical.
Photo: Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images.
Kerry Butler
Kerry Butler — another Broadway star — turns up as Lorelai and Emily's therapist, Claudia.
Photo: Laura Cavanaugh/Getty Images.
Carolyn Hennesy
General Hospital series regular Carolyn Hennesy plays Toni in the Gilmore Girls: A Year In the Life.
Photo: Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic.
Roy Choi
Celebrity chef Roy Choi played himself. He hosted a pop-up restaurant at the Dragonfly Inn.
Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images.
Jason Mantzoukas
Jason Mantzoukas is everywhere these days, from Transparent to Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and plays Robert Castellanos in the Gilmore Girls reboot.
Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images.
Bailey De Young
Bailey De Young reunited with Bunheads creator Amy Sherman-Palladino to appear in Stars Hollow as Heidi.
Photo: Kevin Mazur/WireImage.
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The final four words of Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life were the most closely guarded secret on an incredibly guarded set, so it's no wonder that they're inspiring a massive reaction. Since the show's creator, Amy Sherman-Palladino, left before its final season, the last four words she always had in mind for the finale remained a mystery — until yesterday.
Though fans couldn't wait to find out the ending, Lauren Graham, who plays Lorelai Gilmore, wasn't aware "it was a thing," she told The Hollywood Reporter. "I didn’t know until halfway through filming this that those existed and then Amy told them to me on the set. I was surprised for a minute and then it made complete sense."
On the other hand, Kelly Bishop, who plays matriarch Emily Gilmore, wasn't too impressed with the last four words. She reacted by saying, "Eh, that's it," when she first learned of the ending.
Reactions on Twitter ranged from disappointment and disbelief to WTF.
Apparently, the final four words didn't bring the closure some fans wanted.
So is this really it? Sherman-Palladino told The Hollywood Reporter that she will wait and see how the audience reacts to the Netflix reboot before deciding where to go. If the buildup to Gilmore Girls: A Year In the Life was any indication, where Sherman-Palladino goes, the audience will follow.
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Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
United we stand, divided we fall. But that doesn't mean we have to meld into some homogenous mass. This Tuesday, the new moon in global Sagittarius reminds us to celebrate diversity and the independent spirit. We truly are stronger together. Bring more honesty to dialogues this week. We all hold certain truths to be self-evident, but if the 2016 election proved anything, it's that there's just no telling how other people think. The philosophical new moon can create the space for curiosity. Ask questions instead of making assumptions. Only in the space of a real conversation can we fact-check false information that others may be quietly harboring — or get answers to our own outstanding questions.
On Friday, messenger Mercury careens into Capricorn — the sign of masculinity — until February 7. This is an extended voyage due to a retrograde from December 19 until January 8. Time to get talking to the men in your life. Wake them up to the female perspective and keep enlisting them in the fight for equal rights. There are still glass ceilings to be smashed (and we have faith that they will be). We find it interesting that the retrograde begins on the 19th — the day that the Electoral College finalizes its decision — which could upset certain patriarchal institutions bigly.
Sagittarius
November 22 to December 21
No need to count down to NYE: You can already get that bubbly chilling, Archer. This Tuesday, 2016's only new moon in Sagittarius announces your astrological New Year. Under these electrifying skies, take time to write a wish list along with your 2017 resolutions. Heck, make a vision board while you're at it because a picture says a thousand words. There's no better time than this for planting seeds that you'd like to manifest over the coming half-year. We don’t have to remind you to dream big, Sagittarius — but make sure you’re wishing for the things YOU really want, not just the visions that other people have for your happiness.
On Friday, messenger Mercury leaves your sign after blessing you with the gift of gab since November 12. You've no doubt been an outspoken force in the post-election, post-truth madness. As Mercury moves on to Capricorn for an extended voyage until February 7, you're called to put your money where your mouth is. Fortunately, this Mercury phase brings your planning powers to the forefront. As the sign that rules publishing, you might even start a viral hashtagging campaign or a must-read feed as a means of activism. Working on a budget will be important, since this Mercury phase forces you to be more mindful with spending — especially during a retrograde from December 19 to January 8. Make a list and check it thrice before you hit the mall or do your online shopping. But don't go Scrooge on 'em either. Better to put some dough into one luxe item or "investment piece" than a fistful of stocking stuffers.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Capricorn
December 22 to January 19
Don ye now the rubber gloves, Capricorn. This Tuesday, a new moon sails through your 12th house of completions, helping you tie up loose ends before 2016 is through. After all, you certainly don't need to drag any baggage into 2017 — physically or emotionally. Clean out your closets, donating items to charity or selling the haul online for some holiday gift-shopping moolah. Then, do a sweep of your social media, blocking frenemies and removing annoying people from your visible feeds. This new moon could bring helpful guides your way, like mentors, coaches and consultants. Therapists, energy workers and shamans too, so don’t rule out the woo-woo — and let Santa know that you'd love to be gifted a session instead of an object that will just clutter up your closet at the end of the day.
On Friday, the gift of gab will be your blessing as expressive Mercury sails into Capricorn until February 7. When it's time to speak up — or speak out — no one will have to ask you twice. You'll be refreshingly candid now, a big departure from your reserved nature. (You might even have a list of people who you're coming for, Cap.) Use your powers of persuasion to wake up the people in your world, and get them organized around a meaningful cause. One caveat: Mercury will be retrograde from December 19 until January 8, a time best used for developing ideas behind the scenes — and only sharing them when you feel sure they're rock solid.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Aquarius
January 20 to February 18
Grab the picket sign and bullhorn, Aquarius. Your activist nature gets seriously woke this Tuesday, thanks to the new moon in your "power to the people" 11th house. Rally with like-minded souls — and play the organizer role because you know better than anyone that there's strength in numbers. On a purely social level, this new moon appoints you "crew glue," so bring people together to blow off steam with some good, old-fashioned fun. You might even organize a holiday party or an Airbnb house rental for a group vacay. The 11th house rules technology, so buy yourself an early holiday present of a new laptop or digital device if you're ready for an upgrade. Make sure your sensitive data is backed up to the cloud and properly password protected. Maybe it's time to download the Signal app to encrypt your more subversive communiques.
On Friday, life takes on a surreal tone as mental Mercury slips into your dreamy, esoteric 12th house until February 7. This extra-long Mercury cycle will be great for clearing up psychic clutter. Book those therapy sessions, tarot readings, shamanic ceremonies and holistic healings. Reality just won't be your bag now. But don't lose touch completely! With Mercury turning retrograde from December 19 to January 8 you could get taken for a ride by a snake oil salesman. Get in tune with the muse with a creative project, meditation and journaling. The 12th house rules forgiveness, and while it might take until February to get there, you may be able to find a way to make peace with the relatives who voted reprehensibly, in your humble opinion.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Pisces
February 19 to March 20
Would you like another feather for your fedora, Pisces? This Tuesday, the new moon in your 10th house of ambition could set the stage for a victory dance. But new moons are often our starting blocks, and this one sets you up for a six-month cycle of success. Don't let holiday soirees distract you from your end-of-year career goals or even the projects you want to initiate for a 2017 launch. Word of a plum assignment — or a chance to ascend the ladder by filling someone else’s shoes — could pop up this week. Throw your name in the hat because you stand a good chance of landing this win. Meanwhile, clear the decks of distracting tasks by delegating and outsourcing; you need to focus on profitable missions now.
And don't forget: teamwork can make the dream work. On Friday, social Mercury glides into your collaborative 11th house for an extra-long, two-month tour. While you may have to share some of the glory, you won't mind if you're working alongside other talented people. With Mercury spinning retrograde from December 19 to January 8, you might even reunite with a group from your past. Socially, this Mercury cycle will send your popularity soaring, waking up your activist nature all the while. Who knows? By February 7, you could be spearheading a revolutionary movement!
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Aries
March 21 to April 19
A change of scenery would do you good, Aries. Just in time, Tuesday's new moon in Sagittarius awakens your nomadic spirit. Think bigger than "home for the holidays." These moonbeams grease the wheels for an epic vacation — one that takes you beyond national borders, even. You don't have to leave right away; just start planning and saving up. There might even be an educational component. Think: retreats or teacher training. Enterprising Aries will get a burst of motivation near Tuesday. Start developing a business plan or looking for seed capital to fund the first steps of your venture.
Your career goals keep kicking into gear when on Friday, messenger Mercury cruises into Capricorn and your ambitious 10th house for an extra-long stay, until February 7. Although this will include a retrograde from December 19 until January 8, start making — and working towards your professional resolutions now. Before 2016 is through, you could have an impressive feather to add to your fedora. Schedule power lunches and strategically plant yourself near the boss at the office holiday party. Having friends in high places can pave the way to your own success.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Taurus
April 20 to May 20
Dive into the emotion ocean! Feelings deepen this Tuesday, thanks to a new moon energizing your intense and intimate eighth house. Although you may not act upon it immediately, chemistry will be undeniable this week and should not be ignored. Can't get a certain someone off your mind? Finagle some one-on-one time, even if you're just suggesting a casual coffee or drinks hangout. Erotically, this new moon will send your mojo rising. If you're among the many women who have election PTSD, getting in the mood's probably been rough lately. This week, start by moving your body more often. Go for walks, do exercise that feels nourishing and enlivening. As you become more comfortable in your own skin, you'll wake back up the desire to snuggle up to someone else. Already attached? These moonbeams could nudge you to the next level with your love interest. Start clearing out a section in your closet or even shopping around for a cohabitation station.
Wanderlust will hit you hard on Friday when curious Mercury decamps to your travel sector for an extra-long journey, which lasts until February 7. Start researching. What would it cost to rent a house on the beach or in the mountains with a group of friends? And how about that overseas getaway? Even if you don't have the funds or time off right now, committing to a plan and saving will make the winter fly by a lot faster. With Mercury retrograde from December 19 to January 8, don't hit the "book now" button until you've thoroughly researched all destinations and accommodations. Close to home, cross bridges instead of building walls. Your friend circle could become a lot more diverse during this Mercury cycle — even if you make a few faux pas along the way. Reach out!
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Gemini
May 21 to June 20
Lost in the couple bubble, Gemini? Tuesday's new moon in indie-spirited Sagittarius, the ruler of your relationship house, reminds you that pairing up doesn't have to mean losing your identity. Rebalance the "me" and the "we" to ensure that you have adequate time to develop your own interests while giving your S.O. enough attention to keep the embers bright. Single? This new moon could illuminate a promising prospect; one who can actually go the distance. Don't get hung up on having a type. Sagittarius is the sign of dynamic diversity and you could swoon for someone from a different culture or part of the world.
On Friday, you get another prompt to unfollow your exes and open your eyes to more suitable and available options. Your ruling planet, flirty Mercury, shimmies into Capricorn and your seductive eighth house until February 7. You're insanely enchanting now but beam those charms selectively and keep your standards high. The point of this exercise is to attract someone with whom you could fall deeply and madly in love. Already found 'em? You could get super serious this holiday season, talking about the future and making plans. Attachment alert! The green-eyed monster could be a regular guest star of this Mercury cycle. Get the facts before you start flinging accusations or acting on pure instinct — especially while Mercury is retrograde from December 19 to January 8.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Cancer
June 21 to July 22
Okay, Cancer, it's time to pull yourself out of that emotional slump. As the zodiac's empath, you've no doubt been soaking up the grief of the collective conscious for the past few weeks. (And we can't really blame you.) But this Tuesday, the new moon in Sagittarius electrifies your wellness zone, reminding you that you can still be committed to the cause without letting self-care suffer. Get back in tune with healthy eating habits and find your way to the fitness studio. Grounding in your body will empower you to plan the revolution — and also finish up your 2016 assignments at record speed so you can slip off to a surf town or a ski chalet to recharge. If you need some support staff or more pay, put in the request early next week or get an early January performance review on the calendar.
And don't forget the power of partnership. On Friday, messenger Mercury moves into your relationship house for an extra-long voyage, until February 7. Pair up with your favorite people for the win, whether you're working on a business venture, organizing an activist effort or doing Cupid's bidding. The love gods are definitely in your corner with Mercury here. But stay alert because there will be a retrograde from December 19 until January 8, which could stir up lovers' quarrels and even bring an ex back into the picture.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Leo
July 23 to August 22
Rise, Leo, rise! This Tuesday's new moon in your fifth house of fame, glamour and leadership will push you into the public eye. Stop hiding your skills. Aren't you secretly sick of watching other people get all the credit for things you know you could do better? This new moon helps you hone your skills, your pitch and your marketing game so you can position yourself as the go-to person in the game. Maybe you'll just take charge of a mission that's floundering for direction. Whatever the case, heed the call and put your name on the map. This new moon could spur a style update — and a photo shoot, naturally. Romance is also on the rise, so open your heart and see who picks up the signals.
On Friday, clever Mercury grooves into your house of wellness, work and practical magic until February 7. Worried about breaking the bank on a holiday gifting spree? Summon your DIY magic because handmade gifts with your signature touch can be better than anything pulled straight from the shelves. Opt for labels like sustainable, locally grown, organic and cruelty-free. This Mercury phase gets you back on the healthy living wagon, so no need to wait until January to hop back on. Your bubbly personality might even enjoy this cheerleader-inspired workout. Download apps to help you organize meals and track fitness. Structure will set the stage for success.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Virgo
August 23 to September 22
Did the election divide you from family and childhood friends, Virgo? This Tuesday, the new moon in Sagittarius brings some healing balm to your closest relationships. By no means should you back down from your beliefs. But it's time to get back into dialogue with these important people — even if you're in perma-SMH mode about their ability to normalize or justify what feels like an affront to your values. New moons are like starting blocks, but you have six months to work with their magic. Extend the olive branch or plan a coffee date to get back into communication. This lunation falls in your fourth house of females. Supportive new GFs will enter the picture so get out and mingle with powerful women.
Starting Friday, Vixen will be your spirit reindeer as your ruling planet Mercury shimmies into your fifth house of passionate love. Mercury holds court here for longer than usual, until February 7, pretty much ensuring that you won't be hibernating alone this winter. But who will warm your bed? From December 19 to January 8, Mercury will be retrograde, which could herald the return of an ex — for that dreamed of second chance or a few vigorous rounds of hate sex. Already in a relationship? This Mercury cycle will pump up the playful vibes, but it can also bring a few bouts of drama. Take cool-down breaks if you feel your temper flaring. Just try not to go to bed angry.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Libra
September 23 to October 22
In times of uncertainty, nothing feels better than communing with your circle of supportive friends. This Tuesday, the new moon in Sagittarius will revive your social spirit, getting you off the couch and into the world of incredible people who inspire and heal you. And while getting into the holiday spirit might be challenging in the current political climate, you need to live, Libra. Load up your calendar with cultural events and gather your tribe. Whether you're hitting up a ticketed event or just meeting for casual drinks, pick up the entertainment director's baton. And keep your guest list open! A BFF-grade acquaintance could pop up this week marking the start of a beautiful friendship which blossoms over the coming half year.
On Friday, expressive Mercury moves into your soulful fourth house until February 7 — an extra-long tour due to a retrograde from December 19 to January 8. Incoming feels! Your heart will be wide open for the next two months; so much so that you'll need to set savvier boundaries to avoid getting swept up in people's complicated lives. Women will be the star players of this Mercury cycle and you could reconnect to a childhood friend or important relative during Mercury's retrograde phase. You'll have to watch out for family feuds during the holidays though. Plan carefully, Libra, perhaps avoiding celebrations where button-pushing people will be present.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Scorpio
October 23 to November 21
The temptation of holiday cheer is strong, but first, buckle down on your end-of-year goals. This Tuesday, the new moon in your income zone puts some wind beneath your industrious wings. You can finish your work in record time and set yourself up for that bonus or promotion you've been angling for. If you're looking for a professional upgrade, circulate on LinkedIn and ask friends to connect you to potential opportunities. Or get rolling on a business idea of your own. It could become quite lucrative over the next six months. But it makes little different if you burn cash faster than you earn it. This new moon puts you on a stricter budget. Inconvenient timing with holiday shopping? Not necessarily. Just get more creative with your gifting, checking out indie designers on Etsy or even making some presents by hand.
Your social life will pick up again on Friday when butterfly Mercury flutters into your garrulous third house until February 7. With your killer wit and seductive charm, you're far more than a sexy ornament, Scorpio. This Mercury phase makes you a lot more vocal both IRL and on social media — and people will love hearing your sharp and intelligent thoughts. Let variety be the spice of your social life during this two month phase, which included a retrograde from December 19 to January. Mingle with new crowds and open up your guest list to friends' plus-ones. During the retrograde, you could reconnect to an important amiga from your past! No need to wander too far from to get your fix. The local scene is where you’ll find the true gems.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn.
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Sam Phillips is the genius behind one of our favorite scores on television — and below, she talks about how that came to be. She also happens to be an incredible singer-songwriter with 15 albums under her belt, and you can buy her latest album, Push Any Button, on Amazon or iTunes.
Recently someone asked me if I could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be? I said I had played on a street corner in Stars Hollow once, and that remained at the top of my list.
In 2000, I was surprised to get a phone call asking if I would be interested in doing music for a new TV show called Gilmore Girls. I had spent more than a decade writing songs, making records, and touring, but had never considered such a thing. I drove to the Warner Brothers lot to meet with the show's creator, Amy Sherman-Palladino, on a hot July afternoon, not sure what to expect. I assumed TV people would be on the conservative side, unlike the denizens of the music business. But, when Amy, a former professional dancer, and former writer for the Roseanne show, walked in looking cool wearing a minidress and ankle boots — lighting up the room with her wit — I felt I had met a friend and comrade. I also figured this was not going to be a normal TV show.
When I walked into Amy's office for our first day of working on music, it was like stepping out of a black-and-white (and very corporate) Kansas world into the Technicolor creative haven of Oz. All the things in the room — the walls, the phone, the lamps, the pens, the desks, and even the mannequin — were pink. I want to say there was also a giant martini glass you could sit in and a bubble machine blowing bubbles into the air, but perhaps I made that part up.
Amy did not seem to mind my lack of TV scoring experience because she didn't want a typical soundtrack for Gilmore Girls. She wanted the music to be one of the characters in the story — as though it were the music inside the mother and daughter's heads. And so, I wrote and sang little melodies with "La's" and background vocal parts instead of lyrics, to create that sonic character without stepping on the great, rapid-fire dialogue.
Photo: Courtesy of Warner Brothers.
When Gilmore Girls went on the air, it was different from most other shows on TV. We were surrounded by big slick hits, mean teenage dramas, and sitcoms. But, Gilmore Girls was funny and smart and also deeply touching. And, because it wasn't typical, it took its own time to find an audience, but once people found the show, they seemed to really connect with it. I began to get e-mails and comments from viewers who called my score the "La La's." A mother wrote and said though she and her daughter lived in different cities, they made a phone date to watch the show together every week. My friend's sister had just gone through a rough divorce and told him to tell me (the lowly composer) how much the show meant to her…and that she liked the "La La's." I also met a single dad who watched the show with his teenage daughter.
Some of the music was done in a recording studio, but for the most part, I recorded in a home studio that my husband and I shared. One morning, I walked downstairs, still in my pajamas, and typed in the code to turn off our home security system. I was so sleepy that I typed in the wrong code — the one that said "Help! I am being held hostage in my own home." A few minutes later, as I was starting to make breakfast for my little girl, two extremely handsome police officers (who looked like they were from Central Casting) were knocking at my door. After they searched my house and I explained my mistake, one of them noticed my recording equipment and asked what kind of music I made. I told him I was doing music for a new show called Gilmore Girls. I was shocked when he lit up and said "Tuesday nights at 8 o'clock on the WB — I love that show!"
Photo: Courtesy of Warner Brothers.
There were great broads (female characters, non-pejorative, to be clear) on the show — Miss Patty, Sookie, Gypsy, Lane, and Paris, as well as the three Gilmore ladies — and there were a few funny broads behind the scenes as well. Our weekly music meetings often felt like a girls' night out when Amy and our beloved producer Helen Pai were in attendance. We rivaled Rory and Lorelai with our snacks: There were breakfast burritos, cartons of Chinese food, doughnuts, cupcakes, cookies, and my favorite, the giant coffee-bot that appeared in the writers' kitchen one season. Even today, I would rather own this machine than a fancy car. With the push of a button it would grind the coffee beans, make the espresso, and foam the milk for a very tasty cappuccino or any other hot coffee drink you wanted. I called it Luke.
Halfway through our seven-year run, my marriage ended and I became a single mom. I understand art imitating life, but the opposite is still a mystery to me. And, to Amy and her writers' credit, during that painful time, I felt as if they were reading my e-mails. I laughed and cried with Lorelai and the rest of the characters, feeling as though they were speaking directly to me. This is one of the many reasons why it meant so much to me to sing on that street corner in Stars Hollow.
It was the last night of filming for the last episode Amy wrote and directed before leaving the show. Sonic Youth, Grant-Lee Phillips, and Sparks had already filmed their performances. Luke and Lorelai were arguing in the coffee shop, and as she walked out, brokenhearted, and passed me on the street, Amy cued me to play my song "Taking Pictures." Instead of "La La's" I sang "Nostalgia isn't what it used to be…"
After we wrapped, and as the cast and crew were going home, someone, in classic Lorelai fashion, opened a bottle of liquor they had smuggled onto the set. A few of us raised our plastic cups to Amy...and to all the broads.
Travel Farther Down The TV Nostalgia Road With These Goodies:
I was 13 years old when puberty hit my face in full force. The summer between 7th and 8th grade, I developed what my peers called "pizza face" — red, painful pimples sprinkled generously across my forehead, nose, and cheeks. Naturally, this is when I tried my first acne product: OXY clearing lotion.
I used that thick, white paste like there was no tomorrow, smearing it with abandon over my problem areas in the hope it would zap those zits to oblivion. What actually happened, though, was more irritation and a lot of dryness — a common side effect of active ingredient benzoyl peroxide.
Fast forward nine years and my acne is finally in a manageable place (thanks to a few tortuous months of using prescription Retin-A my senior year of high school), but I still experience semi-regular breakouts, usually along my jawline or on my cheeks. I've been turning to over-the-counter spot treatments to get the job done, and I can say with certainty that this new one by Kiehl's is hands-down the best I've used.
It was created with adult acne in mind, meaning that unlike most OTC acne treatments, it was specifically formulated to be highly potent and highly hydrating. It nixes common acne-fighting ingredients — like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid — in favor of sulfur, a mineral known for its oil-absorbing and antibacterial properties. The ingredient is great for clearing up mild acne and for my consistent breakouts — I probably get a new cluster of pimples every couple of weeks— it does the job.
"Sulfur can certainly calm down acne," says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD. "But for moderate-to-severe cases, you will likely need a harder hitter that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, or even a prescription product like Aczone or Epiduo Forte."
A light layer of this cream tapped on top of my zits cuts the healing time in half, and when I have a particularly angry, inflamed zit, it calms it down within a matter of hours. The major perk is that it contains glycerin and aloe vera to hydrate, soothe, and reduce redness, and brightening niacinamide to help fade discoloration. And having just spent a week home for Thanksgiving surrounded by prying family members, old friends, and loads of sugar, you can bet I'm relying on this treatment to deal with all the stress- and diet-related pimples that have cropped up — just in time for Christmas, when we'll do it all over again.
Kiehl's Breakout Control Targeted Acne Spot Treatment, $28, available at Kiehl's.
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Instead of doing some shopping of his own on Black Friday, Zayn Malik did the reverse. He launched his own online store. Zayn has your back, just in time for the holidays.
Malik teased the store on social media and included the link in a snap.
The store is up and running, stocked with everything a Zayn superfan could need. There are gifts at every price point. The sticker set might be just the thing to soothe a surly tween. In the market for a hoodie? Zayn has you covered. Maybe your dad wants a Zayn dad hat. (On second thought, probably not.) You can even get two different styles of "Z-Day" T-shirts with comic-inspired art.
